As we birders face this unprecedented global pandemic, many of us are turning to our local patch -- our own backyards, often -- to satisfy our need to see birds.
Patch birding is the best. You can get a real feel about trends and the movement of birds from the repeated study in one location. I've been enjoying the birds in our yard. Our feeders are still attracting Painted Buntings (they'll leave soon). The Indigo Buntings are gone, but loud and gregarious Great Crested Flycatchers have moved in, hunting for insects all over the lawn between perching on the feeder poles. A trio of Red-bellied Woodpeckers are regulars, loudly swooping in each time I refill the peanut feeders. Titmice, parulas, and gnatcatchers are feeding young, and the Northern Cardinals will be soon, too. It's all good fun.
However, when you're obligated to bird your patch (or yard) and only your patch (or yard), it can drive a birder just a little bit crazy. This funny text slogan for birders likens patch birding to insanity. The full quote, shown here on a quarantine-appropriate adult beverage flask, reads:
PATCH BIRDING:
Visiting the same spot
over and over
hoping to find new birds.
Also known as
INSANITY.
This text slogan design is also available on t-shirts and other gifts for birders.
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